Patriots Training Camp Highlights: Days 1 and 2

Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe does a great job covering and reporting from the New England Patriots Training Camps. Here are some of his reported highlights from Days 1 and 2:

Training Camp Highlights – Day 1:

The Patriots announced the signing of first-round draft choice Jerod Mayo! That was the biggest highlight!

Bill Belichick had the team in full pads in both practices today, putting his club to the test right off the bat.

Quarterback Tom Brady rested his arm for most of the morning session, but let it fly in the afternoon session, including a long TD pass to Randy Moss.

Fernando Bryant and Jason Webster were the top corners in the practice. Bryant was able to go stride for stride with Randy Moss (in full pads) during most of the practice.

Third-year man Wesley Britt lined up at right tackle Nick Kaczur’s spot, while eight-year veteran Russ Hochstein occupied right guard Stephen Neal’s position.

Defensive lineman Richard Seymour has lost about 10 pounds and looks in great physical condition.

Belichick made the point that in conversations with Brandon Meriweather, he has been told that Meriweather feels more confident this season. Meriweather had some nice plays on the first day of practice, including one interception.

Belichick thoughts on having Mayo in Camp: “It is good to have every player. It is good to him. We worked with him in the spring and I think he learned a lot there. He has a long way to go.”


Training Camp Highlights – Day 2:

Day 2 also started with the team in full pads.

If there is one primary area of concern at this time, it would probably be the right side of the offensive line with first-stringers Nick Kaczur (tackle) and Stephen Neal (guard) on PUP.

There seemed to be a lot of special teams work in this practice. In addition to the blitz-pickup drill with running backs and linebackers, the offensive linemen worked on blocking defensive linemen and rushers in the passing game. There was also an inside-running drill.

Rookie receiver/safety Matthew Slater drew some “oohs” from the crowd with his burst of speed on one kickoff return drill

Rookie free agent RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis was on the field, as he was removed from the active/physically unable to perform list.

It looks like Shawn Crable might fit the profile of the second- and third-down pass rusher for the Patriots, as the team figures out where to play him.

Owner Robert Kraft made an appearance at practice.